Gaming device having a competition bonus scheme

ABSTRACT

A gaming device wherein the success or failure of a current selection directly affects the player&#39;s chances for success in a later selection and the player&#39;s chances for obtaining the highest bonus award possible.

PRIORITY CLAIM

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/923,203, filed on Aug. 19, 2004, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/114,837, filed on Apr. 2, 2002, which is a continuation of and claims the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/628,144, filed Jul. 28, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,406,369 B1, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is related to the following commonly-owned co-pending patent applications: “GAMING DEVICE HAVING A GAME WITH DECREASING PROBABILITIES OF SUCCESS,” Ser. No. 10/238,237, Attorney Docket No. 0112300-1057; “GAMING DEVICE HAVING A MULTIPLE ROUND GAME WHERE SUCCESS IN ONE ROUND DETERMINES THE PROBABILITIES OF SUCCESS IN ANOTHER ROUND,” Ser. No. 10/659,629, Attorney Docket No. 0112300-1634; “GAMING DEVICE HAVING AN INDICATOR SELECTION WITH PROBABILITY-BASED OUTCOME,” Ser. No. 10/734,307, Attorney Docket No. 0112300-1846; “GAMING DEVICE HAVING A BONUS ROUND WITH MULTIPLE RANDOM AWARD GENERATION AND MULTIPLE RETURN/RISK SCENARIOS,” Ser. No. 10/865,713, Attorney Docket No. 0112300-2339.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the photocopy reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure in exactly the form it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

DESCRIPTION

The present invention relates in general to a gaming device, and more particularly to a gaming device with a bonus scheme wherein the player takes part in a competition, the success of which determines the player's bonus award.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Gaming machines currently exist with bonus schemes in which a player has one or more opportunities to choose bonus awards that are initially masked from a group of symbols arranged in a pattern displayed to the player. When the player chooses a masked symbol from the pattern, the bonus scheme removes the mask and either awards the player with a bonus value or terminates the bonus round with a bonus terminator. The outcome depends upon whether the player selects an award or a terminator. The controller of the gaming machine randomly places a predetermined number of bonus awards and bonus terminators in the pattern at the beginning of the bonus round and maintains the positioning until the bonus round terminates.

When the player selects a symbol that awards a bonus value, the player receives bonus credits, the bonus scheme typically displays a message that the player may continue and enables the player to select another symbol. The player then selects another masked symbol, and the process continues until the player selects a bonus round terminator. European Patent Application No. EP 0 945 837 A2 filed on Mar. 18, 1999 and assigned on its face to WMS Gaming, Inc. discloses a bonus scheme of this type.

In the above type of scheme, a prior selection does not affect the current selection except to the extent that one less selection possibility exists. The bonus scheme may also end quite quickly if the player selects a bonus terminator early in the bonus round. While the European Patent Application No. EP 0 945 837 discloses a “bonus resource” that a player may obtain during the base game of the gaming device, which the player can thereafter apply during the bonus round, the “bonus resource” may only extend the life of the bonus round momentarily before the player again selects a bonus terminator. The application discloses that the “bonus resource” is not certain to occur in the base game, so that the player may not have a bonus resource in the bonus round. Finally, the player blindly selects masked symbols until selecting the bonus terminator, which is immediately displayed. The player sees only the result, an award or a terminator.

Bonus schemes provide gaming manufacturers with the opportunity to add enjoyment and excitement to that which is already expected from the base game. Excitement and enjoyment increases when the level of interaction between the bonus scheme increases and also when the bonus round remains compelling for an extended period of time. It is therefore desirable to create a bonus scheme in which a current selection relates to or impacts a later selection. It is also desirable to provide a bonus round that remains compelling for an extended period of time even if the player does not ultimately fare well in the bonus round. Finally, a bonus scheme can increase excitement and enjoyment by depicting the success or failure during the bonus scheme, not merely the end result.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The apparatus and method of the present invention provides a gaming device having a bonus scheme wherein the player takes part in a contest, competition, event or situation, the success of which determines the player's bonus award. The gaming device provides the player with a predetermined number of chances to advance to a higher bonus score. The game preferably provides the same number of chances regardless of the player's performance. The outcome of each player selection directly affects the player's chances for success in a later selection and the player's chances for obtaining the highest bonus award possible. The gaming device also displays, in accordance with the theme of the competition, how the player fairs in the competition.

In general, when the reels of the base game of the present invention contain symbols that trigger the bonus round, the game initializes and displays a competitive environment, contest, event or situation. The preferred embodiment is an automobile racetrack with nine cars in nine positions, first to ninth, in which a player is initially in the position of ninth place. The race begins and runs for eight laps. In each lap, the player (who acts as the driver) has one opportunity to pass the preceding car by choosing either to pass to the left or to the right of the preceding car. The gaming device stores a database having a success probability for each lap, wherein the probability of success preferably decreases as the player advances.

When the player selects to pass left or pass right, the game invokes the database and displays a dynamic video computer generated, animated or combined audio-visual enactment of a driver attempting to pass to the chosen side. The display shows a successful pass or a failed attempt. The player proceeds in this manner to pass as many cars as possible in eight laps, with the odds of passing preferably decreasing as the player passes each preceding car or competitor. The player's position at the end of eight laps determines the bonus award, wherein the closer the player is to first place, the higher the bonus award.

The game is preferably displayed on a video monitor, and the video monitor preferably contains a touch screen for the player to input signals, such as whether the player wishes to pass to the left or to the right of the preceding car. The game consists of a plurality of screens shown on the video monitor. An initial screen displays the gaming arena which is preferably a racetrack. The screen shows a leader board having a plurality of positions, a race car in each position (one of which is the player), and a multiplier for each position. Preferably, the multiplier increases as the positions advance from ninth to first.

The initial screen also contains at least one and preferably two or more action activators. When the player selects one of the activators, the game switches screens and displays an audio-visual enactment of the competition using the player's selection. The enactment shows the player (or driver representing the player) attempting to pass the preceding car on the left or on the right, whichever the player has selected, and ultimately shows a successful or unsuccessful pass attempt. After the enactment, the game returns the player to the initial screen, wherein the player again selects one of the activators. If the previous attempt has been successful, the player attempts to pass a new car. If not, the player attempts to pass the same car. If the player is successful, the player advances on the leader board.

The implementor of the gaming device can set the multipliers on the leader board to increase linearly or non-linearly in accordance with the game theme and to enhance player excitement and enjoyment. Also, the implementor ordinarily sets the probabilities of advancement from one position to the next to decrease in accordance with the increase of the multipliers. As the multipliers increase, the probabilities of success decrease. When the player fails to advance and returns to the initial screen to make another attempt, the probability of advancement preferably stays the same but alternatively may increase or decrease.

The player continues to attempt to advance by selecting to pass left or pass right until the player makes eight selections, at which time the bonus round ends. In an alternative embodiment, the game could allow more selections than there are positions in which case the bonus round could end when the player reaches the most valuable position on the leader board. At the end of the bonus round, the game retrieves a bonus multiplier from a database in memory that corresponds to the player's final position on the leader board. The game's processor multiplies the multiplier by the player's current base game bet and displays the new total of base game credits. The bonus scheme preferably contains an additional credit display on the initial screen of the touch screen.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a gaming device with a competitive bonus scheme.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a gaming device with a bonus round which remains compelling for an extended period of time even if the player does not ultimately fare well in the bonus round.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a gaming device with a bonus round which illustrates an audiovisual depiction of the success or failure of the bonus scheme, not merely the end result.

Other objects, features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following detailed disclosure, taken in conjunction with the accompanying sheets of drawings, wherein like numerals refer to like parts, elements, components, steps and processes.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of one embodiment of the gaming device of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of the electronic configuration of one embodiment of the gaming device of the present invention.

FIG. 2A is a schematic block diagram illustrating a plurality of gaming terminals in communication with a central location.

FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the video monitor of the gaming device of the present invention shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a single screen from a dynamic audio-visual display illustrating the responsive dynamic display element of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of one embodiment of the bonus scheme of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is an illustration of one example of the present invention showing nine different points in time of the present bonus scheme.

FIG. 7 is an illustration of a single screen from one dynamic video display illustrating the responsive video clip embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a single screen from another dynamic video display illustrating the responsive video clip embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of one embodiment of the gaming device disclosed herein, wherein the player's probability of success decreases or remains the same after a selection resulting in an unsuccessful outcome.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Gaming Device and Electronics

Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 generally illustrates a gaming device 10 of one embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably a slot machine having the controls, displays and features of a conventional slot machine. Gaming device 10 is constructed so that a player can operate gaming device 10 while standing or sitting. However, it should be appreciated that gaming device 10 can be constructed as a pub-style table-top game (not shown) which a player can operate preferably while sitting. Gaming device 10 can also be implemented as a program code stored in a detachable cartridge for operating a hand-held video game device. Also, gaming device 10 can be implemented as a program code stored on a disk or other memory device which a player can use in a desktop or laptop personal computer or other computerized platform.

Gaming device 10 can incorporate any game such as slot, poker or keno in addition to any of their bonus triggering events which trigger the bonus scheme of the present invention. The symbols and indicia used on and in gaming device 10 may be in mechanical, electrical or video form.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, gaming device 10 includes a coin slot 12 and bill acceptor 14 where the player inserts money, coins or tokens. The player can place coins in the coin slot 12 or paper money in the bill acceptor 14. Other devices could be used for accepting payment such as readers or validators for credit cards or debit cards. When a player inserts money in gaming device 10, a number of credits corresponding to the amount deposited is shown in a credit display 16. After depositing the appropriate amount of money, a player can begin the game by pulling arm 18, pushing play button 20 or activating any other mechanism which starts the game.

As shown in FIG. 1, gaming device 10 also includes a bet display 22 and a bet one button 24. The player places a bet by pushing the bet one button 24. The player can increase the bet by one credit each time the player pushes the bet one button 24. When the player pushes the bet one button 24, the number of credits shown in the credit display 16 decreases by one, and the number of credits shown in the bet display 22 increases by one.

Gaming device 10 also has a display window 28 which contains a plurality of reels 30, preferably three to five reels in mechanical or video form. Each reel 30 displays a plurality of indicia such as bells, hearts, fruits, numbers, letters, bars or other images which preferably correspond to a theme associated with the gaming device 10. If the reels 30 are in video form, the gaming device 10 preferably displays the video reels 30 at video monitor 32 instead of at display window 28.

At any time during the game, a player may “cash out” and thereby receive a number of coins corresponding to the number of remaining credits by pushing a cash out button 26. When the player “cashes out,” the player receives the coins in a coin payout tray 34. The gaming device 10 may employ other payout mechanisms such as credit slips redeemable by a cashier or electronically recordable cards which keep track of the player's credits.

With respect to electronics, gaming device 10 preferably includes the electronic configuration generally illustrated in FIG. 2, including a processor 36, a memory device 38 for storing program code or other data, a video monitor 32 or other display device (i.e., a liquid crystal display) and at least one input device as indicated by block 40 such as the arm 18, play button 20, the bet one button 24, and the cash out button 26. The processor 36 is preferably a microprocessor or microcontroller-based platform which is capable of displaying images, symbols and other indicia such as images of people, characters, places, things and faces of cards. The memory device 38 can include random access memory (RAM) 42 for storing event data or other data generated or used during a particular game. The memory device 38 can also include read only memory (ROM) 44 for storing program code which controls the gaming device 10 so that it plays a particular game in accordance with applicable game rules and pay tables.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, the player can use input devices as generally indicated by block 40 to input signals into gaming device 10. However, it is preferable that a touch screen 46 and an associated touch screen controller 48 are used instead of the conventional video monitor 32. Touch screen 46 and touch screen controller 48 are connected to a video controller 50 and processor 36. A player can make decisions and input signals into the gaming device 10 by touching touch screen 46 at the appropriate locations. As further illustrated in FIG. 2, the processor 36 can be connected to coin slot 12 or bill acceptor 14. The processor 36 can be programmed to require a player to deposit a certain amount of money in order to start the game.

It should be appreciated that although a processor 36 and memory device 38 are preferable implementations of the present invention, the present invention can also be implemented using one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC's) or other hard-wired devices, or using mechanical devices (collectively or alternatively referred to herein as a “processor”). Furthermore, although the processor 36 and memory device 38 preferably reside on each gaming device 10 unit, as illustrated in FIG. 2A, it is possible to provide some or all of their functions at a central location 130 such as a network server for communication to a playing station such as over a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), Internet connection, microwave link, and the like. The processor 36 and memory device 38 are together generally referred to herein as a “computer.”

With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, to operate the gaming device 10, the player must insert the appropriate amount of money or tokens at coin slot 12 or bill acceptor 14 and then pull the arm 18 or push the play button 20. The reels 30 will then begin to spin. Eventually, the reels 30 will come to a stop. As long as the player has credits remaining, the player can spin the reels 30 again. Depending upon where the reels 30 stop, the player may or may not win additional credits.

In addition to winning credits in this manner, preferably gaming device 10 also gives players the opportunity to win credits in a bonus round. This type of gaming device 10 will include a program which will automatically begin a bonus round when the player has achieved a qualifying condition in the game. This qualifying condition can be a particular arrangement of indicia on the display window 28. The gaming device 10 also includes a display device such as a video monitor 32 shown in FIG. 1. The display device visually displays images and produces sounds, enabling the player to play the bonus round. Preferably, the qualifying condition is a predetermined combination of indicia appearing on a plurality of reels 30. As illustrated in the three reel slot machine shown in FIG. 1, the qualifying condition could be the text “BONUS!” appearing in the same location on three adjacent reels.

Bonus Scheme

FIG. 3 is an enlargement of the video monitor 32 from FIG. 1, which contains a screen showing the preferred embodiment of the present invention. The preferred embodiment employs an automobile race, however, it should be appreciated that the scheme could employ any racing format such as a horse race or any other contest, competition, event or situation. The common elements in all of these preferred embodiments is that a first place, a plurality of intermediate positions and a last place exist. The present scheme could also tailor any competition such as a football game, a baseball game or a basketball game to fit the bonus scheme by providing, for example, a plurality of participants or teams ranked from first to last place.

The preferred embodiment includes a position, place or bonus award indicator such as a leader board 52 having a plurality positions generally indicated by consecutive ascending or descending numbers 54 that track a player's (driver's) progress. The preferred embodiment contains nine positions 54, however, the scheme contemplates any number of positions. Preferably, the scheme provides the player with a number of chances to advance to the most valuable position. In the preferred embodiment, the player begins in the last place and has eight chances to advance (i.e., one chance for each position). If the player advances in each of the eight chances, the player will be in first place and will win the largest bonus award or prize. Alternatively, the scheme could provide two or more chances to advance for any one of the positions. The present invention enhances player enjoyment and excitement by providing a relatively long bonus event in comparison to other bonus schemes. The game implementor chooses the number of positions and the number of chances to advance to maximize player excitement and enjoyment.

The chance for advancement preferably follows the game theme. In the preferred embodiment, a chance to advance takes place during one lap of a race track, wherein the chance includes one attempt to pass the race car ahead of the player/driver. In an alternative embodiment, the chance could include a plurality of opportunities to pass the preceding car. In another alternative embodiment, the chance could include a preset amount of time in which the player can pass the car ahead. In another, the scheme could provide the player with one or more chances to overtake a plurality of cars (thus advancing a plurality of positions 54 on the leader board 52) in one or more laps or in a preset amount of time.

The leader board 52 displays a plurality of competitors generally indicated by symbols such as numbers 56 who are competing with the player who is represented by a symbol such as a number 58 for the most valuable position. The positions are ranked in accordance with a series of multipliers generally indicated by number 60, which will ultimately provide the player's bonus. For each position 54, there exists a competitor number 56 or a player number 58 and a multiplier 60. Preferably, the multipliers advance from lowest to highest, as shown, in accordance with a game theme that has a last place, a plurality of intermediate positions and a first place. In the preferred embodiment, the driver in the last or ninth position 54, has the lowest multiplier 60, here a 1×, while the driver in the highest or first position 54, has the highest multiplier 60, here a 500×. At the end of the bonus round, the position of the player determines the player's bonus scheme award. Here, the player is shown driving car forty-three and has a 50× multiplier.

It should be appreciated that the multipliers can advance in a linear fashion such as 50×, 100×, 150×, 200×, 250×, 300×, 350×, 400×, and 450×, exponentially such as 2×, 4×, 8×, 16×, 32×, 64×, 128×, and 256×, or in any other non-linear fashion such as shown in the preferred embodiment as 1×, 2×, 3×, 5×, 10×, 25×, 50×, 250× and 500×. In the preferred embodiment, the distribution is flat in the beginning but peaks at the end. The implementor designates the bonus multiplier increments according to the game theme, the number of chances for advancement and according to a change in the probability of advancement between positions 54, as described below. Preferably, the scheme rewards the player for advancement by increasing the multipliers, however, the present invention contemplates placing “stumbling blocks” along the way wherein an advance multiplier does not have a higher value than does current multiplier.

The present scheme contemplates providing the player with one or more action activators herein referred to as action activator 66 and alternative action activator 68. Generally, the action activator 66 and the alternative action activator 68 provide the player with a choice or selection, wherein the player makes the choice or selection during the opportunity to advance. In the preferred embodiment, the bonus scheme provides the player the option to select the action activator 66 to pass left or to select the alternative action activator 68 to pass right. The present invention contemplates employing any suitable action that conforms to the game theme. Preferably, the action is outcome determinative. For example, in an embodiment where the player is a baseball pitcher, the player might be required to choose between throwing a fast ball or a curve ball.

When the player selects a choice of action, the processor makes a random determination based on a database of predetermined probabilities contained in the memory device 38 as to whether the player has made the right choice or not. If the player makes the right choice, the player advances to the next position and the probability for advancement preferably decreases. The database of probabilities in the memory of the computer preferably relates, albeit negatively, to the bonus multiplier increments. For example, if the bonus multipliers increment linearly as described above, then the probability of advancement preferably decreases linearly. If the bonus multipliers increment exponentially or otherwise non-linearly, then the probability of advancement preferably decreases exponentially or non-linearly.

In a linear example, if the multipliers advance; 50×, 100×, 150×, 200×, 250×, 300×, 350×, 400× and 450×, the probability of making the correct choice preferably decreases linearly, such as; 90%, 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, 30% and 20% (note that there are nine positions and thus nine multipliers, but only eight advancement probabilities, one for each chance to advance). In a non-linear example, if the multipliers advance; 1×, 2×, 3×, 5×, 10×, 25×, 50×, 250× and 500×, the probability of making the correct choice preferably decreases non-linearly, such as 95%, 90%, 80%, 65%, 55%, 30%, 20% and 15%. It should be appreciated that the present invention could employ any suitable combination of probability sets and multiplier sets in accordance with a game theme or to enhance player enjoyment and excitement as desired by the implementor of the gaming device.

The choice of either the action activator 66 or the alternative action activator 68 sets in motion a demonstration or display of the action that enhances player excitement and enjoyment. FIG. 4 is one image of the display of a dynamic, video, computer simulated, animated or combined audio-visual demonstration, shown on the video monitor 32, which displays whether the player has made the right choice and thus whether the player advances in the bonus round. Preferably, the demonstration follows the theme of the embodiment. In FIG. 4, the preferred embodiment illustrates a realistic auto racing scene from the viewpoint of a racecar driver (i.e., the player) who is in hot pursuit of a competitor immediately in front of the driver. It should be appreciated that the bonus scheme of the present invention could employ any suitable demonstration that is in accordance with an auto race. The demonstration is preferably dynamic, e.g., shows changes over time. The demonstration can be a video-clip from a motion picture, a dynamic computer generated or simulated image, an animation or any combination thereof.

The action is whether the player or driver will pass on the left or on the right of the preceding car. After the player selects whether to go left or right, the demonstration acts out the choice and shows the player's racecar attempting to or proceeding to pass on the left or the right. Ultimately, the demonstration reveals (by visual, audio or audio-visual signals) whether the player passes successfully and advances or whether the player is “cut-off” and stays in the current position. When the demonstration is finished, the player returns to the initial screen, which shows the leader board. If the bonus scheme no longer enables the player to have a chance to advance or if the player has achieved the most valuable position, the initial screen displays the player's final position and bonus award, and the bonus round ends.

If the player's pass attempt is successful and if another chance at advancement exists, the game advances the player to the next position of leader board 52 and enables the player to select to pass the next preceding car on the left or the right, for which the probability of success decreases. If the player's pass attempt is not successful and if another chance at advancement exists, the game enables the player to attempt to pass the same car as before on the left or the right, for which the probability of success stays the same. In an alternative embodiment, the game increases the probability of success at one or more positions 54 when the player fails to advance. This embodiment could, for example, increase the probability that the player will advance when the player fails to pass after two consecutive laps.

The present invention contemplates providing a position depiction 70, in accordance with the theme of the bonus scheme, that illustrates the relative position of the player number 58 and the plurality of competitor numbers 56. The position depiction 70 preferably involves an enactment of the contest, competition or event. The position depiction can be static or animated. In the present embodiment, the position depiction is an animated top plan view of a racetrack that displays a symbol for each competitor 56 and a symbol representing the player 58. Preferably, the symbols move along the racetrack in their current relative positions, but the display may show certain symbols gaining on the symbol ahead. When the player selects one of the action activators 66 and 68, and the bonus scheme displays the screen of FIG. 4 and determines whether the player advances, the position depiction 70 updates the position of the player's symbol if the player advances.

Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, both screens of the video monitor 32 contain a second credit display 16 in close proximity to the bonus scheme so that the player may easily see the player's total credits while playing the bonus round. It should be appreciated that the credit display 16 is not necessary for the bonus scheme of the present invention.

Both screens also contain a paid display 62. The paid display 62 shows the number of credits from the bonus round that the game has added to the credit meter 16. The initial screen of FIG. 3 further contains a current win display 64. The current win display 64 shows the current win amount of the bonus round and updates itself each time the player advances to the next level.

Alternative Embodiment

In an alternative embodiment, the present scheme contemplates having any contest, competition, event or situation regardless of whether there exists a first place, a plurality of intermediate positions and a last place. In this embodiment, the player obtains a higher bonus award when a symbol representing the player succeeds in any aspect of a contest, competition, event or situation. For instance, in a basketball game, the invention contemplates advancing a player's bonus award for making a basket. The invention could allow the player to attempt a plurality of shots, for example in a 3-point shooting contest or a game of “h-o-r-s-e.” The player preferably would not lose bonus awards for failing to succeed, however, the invention contemplates reducing the player's bonus in such a situation.

The probability of succeeding increases or decreases in accordance with the game theme. In the basketball example, the probability could decrease as the difficulty of the shot increases. The probabilities could increase incrementally as the contest proceeds, or the probabilities could decrease incrementally as the contest proceeds. In other contests, such as a card game, the probabilities could change randomly.

This embodiment contemplates displaying the bonus award in a suitable manner in accordance with the game theme. In the basketball example, the bonus scheme could display a bonus award indicator such as a scoreboard, wherein the player's bonus award is shown as the score. In a baseball game, the award could be the summation or multiplication of runs obtained in an inning. In a pool game, the bonus scheme could provide a counter that tallies the numbers on the pool balls that the player successfully shoots into a pocket.

The invention contemplates providing different aspects of one or more contests in a single bonus scheme. For example, the bonus scheme could simulate a decathlon, wherein the player obtains bonus awards based upon the player's place of finish in one or more of the decathlon events. This embodiment enhances player excitement and enjoyment by providing a bonus round that remains compelling for an extended period of time even if the player does not ultimately fare well in the bonus round.

The invention also shows the player a depiction of the success or failure of the bonus scheme, not merely the end result. The depiction involves the use of a dynamic display as with the preferred embodiment. The depiction likewise could be a video clip from a motion picture, a dynamic computer generated or simulated image, an animation or any combination thereof.

Bonus Scheme Sequence

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the sequence of operation for the above described bonus scheme. When a player achieves a bonus triggering or qualifying condition while playing the game, such as when the reels 30 of the display window 28 show “BONUS!,” “BONUS!,” “BONUS!,” the gaming device 10 automatically begins the bonus round of the present invention as indicated by block 102. To enhance player excitement and enjoyment, the game preferably provides an initialization sequence with suitable audio and visual signals to inform the player that the combination of the reels 30 has invoked the bonus scheme. For example, the game could maintain a blank video monitor 32 until the bonus round begins, wherein the monitor flashes suitable video signals before presenting the initial bonus round screen.

The preferred initialization of the bonus round is indicated by block 104. The game displays the number of positions 54 and the bonus multipliers 60 to the player, and places the player in the last position (i.e., 1× multiplier) as indicated by block 104. The game accesses a success probability database from the memory device but preferably does not display the database to the player. The game enables the player to select a choice of action as indicated by block 106. The initial screen (FIG. 3) preferably provides a directional indicator 72 that prompts the player to select either the action activator 66 (pass left) or the alternative action activator 68 (pass right).

After the player selects an action, the game invokes the probability database from the memory device 38, and randomly determines if the player's choice of action succeeds in advancing the player to the next most valuable position, as indicated by diamond 108. To enhance player excitement and enjoyment, the game displays the determination to the player through a dynamic video, computer generated, animated or combined audio-visual sequence (FIG. 4) in accordance with the game theme. In the preferred embodiment, the game displays one lap of an automobile race wherein the player either passes the preceding car or gets “cut-off.” The present invention contemplates other ways to display failure such as showing the player/driver's attempt ending in a fiery crash.

If the player successfully passes the preceding car as determined in diamond 108, the player moves to the next most valuable position 54 of the leader board 52 (FIG. 3), as indicated by block 110. The computer stores the new current position and obtains the next (decreasing) probability of advancement from the memory device 38 of the computer, as indicated by block 112. If the player does not successfully pass the preceding car as randomly determined in diamond 108, the player stays in the same position 54 of the leader board 52, and the probability of success preferably remains the same or is alternatively increased, as indicated by block 114.

At the end of the lap as indicated by diamond 116, the scheme determines if another lap (i.e., chance at advancement) exists or if the player has exhausted all the chances. The game also determines if the player has reached the most valuable position 54. If neither condition exists, the game enables the player to select another choice of action as indicated by block 106. If either condition exists as indicated in block 118, the game invokes the bonus multiplier database from the memory device 38, multiplies the player's current bet shown in the bet display 22 by the bonus multiplier corresponding to the position 54 the player achieves and displays the new total in the credit display 16. The game ends the bonus round and returns the player to the base game of gaming device 10 as indicated by block 120.

FIG. 6 illustrates one example of the present invention. It shows nine separate screens 32(a) through 32(i) that illustrate the player's initial position, the player's choice of action (pass left or pass right), and the result of each choice of action at the end of the lap. The screens also show the credit display 16. For illustration purposes only, the probability of advancement is placed in between two consecutive screens as an example of a probability that the implementor would likely use for that particular chance for advancement.

Referring to screen 32(a) of FIG. 6, the player in car 43 begins the bonus round in last place and with 10 base game credits. The player chooses to pass car 3 on the left, the database in the memory 38 maintains a 95% probability that the player will randomly advance from the ninth position to the eighth and overtake the competitor. Screen 32(b) shows that the player passed car 3 and now chooses to pass car 5 on the left. The database maintains a 90% probability that the player will randomly advance from the eighth position to the seventh and overtake the competitor, car 5. Screen 32(c) shows that the player passed car 5 and now chooses to pass car 24 on the right. The database maintains an 80% probability that the player will randomly advance from the seventh position to the sixth and overtake the competitor, car 24. Screen 32(d) shows that the player passed car 24 and now chooses to pass car 99 on the left. The database maintains a 65% probability that the player will randomly advance from the sixth position to the fifth and overtake the competitor, car 99.

Screen 32(e) shows that the player failed to pass car 99 and now chooses to again pass car 99, this time on the right. The database still maintains the 65% probability that the player will randomly advance from the sixth position to the fifth and overtake the competitor, car 99. Screen 32(f) shows that the player passed car 99 and now chooses to pass car 94 on the right. The database maintains a 30% probability that the player will randomly advance from the fifth position to the fourth and overtake the competitor, car 94. Screen 32(g) shows that the player passed car 94 and now chooses to pass car 18 on the right. The database maintains a 20% probability that the player will randomly advance from the fourth position to the third and overtake the competitor, car 18.

Screen 32(h) shows that the player failed to pass car 18 and now chooses to again pass car 18, this time on the left. The database still maintains the 20% probability that the player will randomly advance from the fourth position to the third and overtake the competitor, car 18. Screen 32(i) shows that the player passed car 18. Screen 32(i) also shows the final position of the player after eight laps, the limit set by gaming device 10. The memory device 38 stores a bonus multiplier of 50× for the third position. The processor 36 of the computer multiplies the 50× multiplier by the player's bet of five base game credits in display 22 and displays the new total, 260 credits (250 from bonus plus the 10 original), in the credit display 16 of screen 32(i). The game returns the player to the base game.

It should be appreciated that an alternative embodiment could employ a button or other suitable input device that would enable the player to end the round before exhausting all chances for advancement or reaching the most valuable position. The preferred embodiment does not contain such an option.

Referring to FIGS. 4, 7 and 8, an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown wherein the game can provide dynamic audio-visual displays, and in particular video clips from motion pictures, in response to various predetermined events in the base game and bonus round of the gaming device. As discussed previously, FIG. 4, having the display of a dynamic video, computer generated, animated or combined audio-visual demonstration, displays whether the player advances in the bonus round. The game shows the display of FIG. 4 in response to a choice of an action activator or an alternative action activator, i.e., a selection in the bonus round.

FIG. 7 illustrates a dynamic display that occurs upon a different event; namely, upon the player's generation of an award in an amount sufficient to trigger the display. In this example, the dynamic display is a video clip from a popular television show. The present invention preferably provides responsive video clips, however, the game could also provide responsive computer simulations, animations or any combination thereof. FIG. 7 contains the video monitor 32, the video clip 74 and the paid display 62 showing that the player received a large bonus award. It should be appreciated that both a base game and a bonus award can trigger the video clip of the present invention.

The video clip 74 celebrates the player's achievement of a substantial award. The game preferably does not provide a video clip for any award but only for awards above a set value. Alternatively, the game could provide a clip anytime the player achieved an award. The video clips 74 are preferably short in length, approximately 2 to 10 seconds and preferably contain suitable audio displays. The audio displays may be edited over the original sound of the movie or television show. For example, the audio of the video clip 74 of FIG. 7 can contain the actual music from the television show, with a separate voice superimposed or dubbed in, wherein the voice makes an entertaining or funny remark about the video clip displayed. The implementor can provide any combination of original and edited audio displays.

Referring now to FIG. 8, a video clip 76 of another popular television show is shown in response to another triggering event; namely, the termination of the bonus round. The present invention contemplates providing a video clip in response to the initialization or termination of a bonus round. That is, upon a bonus round triggering event, the game begins the bonus round, preferably on the video monitor 32, by showing a video clip such as video clip 76. FIG. 8 illustrates a video clip displayed upon the termination of the bonus round, wherein the paid display 62 shows bonus round credits that the game has issued to a player. The video clips initiated upon a bonus initiation or termination preferably operate the same as described above. The game can also provide suitable simulated, animated or combined dynamic displays instead of a video clip.

In one embodiment, as indicated in block 132 of FIG. 9, the gaming device provides and displays a first attempt for obtaining a first award, wherein the first attempt for obtaining the first award is associated with a first probability of success. If the first attempt for obtaining the first award is successful, the gaming device provides and displays a first attempt for obtaining a second award, wherein the first attempt for obtaining the second award is associated with a second, different probability of success and the second award is less than, equal to or greater than the first award as indicated in diamond 134 and block 136. On the other hand, if the first attempt for obtaining the first award is not successful, the gaming device provides and displays a second attempt for obtaining the first award, wherein the second attempt for obtaining the first award is associated with a probability of success equal to or less than the first probability of success as indicated in diamond 134 and block 138.

While the present invention is described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it should be appreciated that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, and is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the claims. Modifications and variations in the present invention may be made without departing from the novel aspects of the invention as defined in the claims, and this application is limited only by the scope of the claims. 

1. A gaming device operable under control of at least one processor, said gaming device comprising: a primary game controlled by the at least one processor and operable upon a wager by a player; a display device controlled by the at least one processor; an input device in communication with the processor; and said at least one processor programmed to selectively provide a secondary game, wherein for a play of the secondary game, the at least one processor is programmed to: (a) cause the display device to display at least six ordered award levels and a plurality of awards associated with the award levels, wherein each higher award level is associated with a higher one of the awards; (b) select a first one of the award levels; (c) cause the display device to indicate the selected award level; (d) enable the player to pick one of two selections using the input device; (e) determine if the player's picked selection results in a successful outcome or an unsuccessful outcome, wherein said determination is random; (f) if the player's picked selection results in the successful outcome: (i) cause the display device to display a successful outcome animation, (ii) select and cause the display device to indicate a higher one of the award levels, if any, and (iii) determine if a terminating event has occurred, said terminating event occurring if a designated number of outcomes are determined; (g) if the player's picked selection results in the unsuccessful outcome: (i) cause the display device to display an unsuccessful outcome animation, (ii) cause the display device to indicate the same selected award level as previously indicated, and (ii) determine if the terminating event has occurred; (h) if the terminating event has occurred, provide the player the award associated with the currently indicated award level; and (i) if the terminating event has not occurred, repeat (d) to (i) at least once.
 2. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein the terminating event occurs if a designated number of unsuccessful outcomes are determined.
 3. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein the processor is programmed to selectively cause the display device to display eight ordered levels.
 4. The gaming device of claim 1, wherein the processor is programmed to selectively cause the display device to display nine ordered levels.
 5. A memory device which includes a plurality of instructions, that when executed by at least one processor, cause a gaming machine to: (a) display at least six ordered award levels and a plurality of awards associated with the award levels, wherein each higher award level is associated with a higher one of the awards; (b) select a first one of the award levels; (c) indicate the selected award level; (d) enable a player to pick one of two selections using the input device; (e) determine if the player's picked selection results in a successful outcome or an unsuccessful outcome, wherein said determination is random; (f) if the player's picked selection results in the successful outcome: (i) display a successful outcome animation, (ii) select and indicating a higher one of the award levels, if any, and (iii) determine if a terminating event has occurred, said terminating event occurring if a designated number of outcomes are determined; (g) if the player's picked selection results in the unsuccessful outcome: (i) display an unsuccessful outcome animation, (ii) indicate the same selected award level as previously indicated, and (ii) determine if the terminating event has occurred; (h) if the terminating event has occurred, provide the player the award associated with the currently indicated award level; and (i) if the terminating event has not occurred, repeat (d) to (i) at least once.
 6. The memory device of claim 5, wherein the plurality of instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the gaming machine to trigger the terminating event if a designated number of unsuccessful outcomes are determined.
 7. The memory device of claim 5, wherein the plurality of instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the gaming machine display eight ordered levels.
 8. The memory device of claim 5, wherein the plurality of instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the gaming machine display nine ordered levels.
 9. The memory device of claim 5, which is selected from the group consisting of a detachable cartridge, a disk, a random access memory, a read only memory and an application-specific integrated circuit.
 10. A method of operating a gaming device, said method comprising: (a) displaying at least six ordered award levels and a plurality of awards associated with the award levels, wherein each higher award level is associated with a higher one of the awards; (b) selecting a first one of the award levels; (c) indicating the selected award level; (d) enabling a player to pick one of two selections using the input device; (e) determining if the player's picked selection results in a successful outcome or an unsuccessful outcome, wherein said determination is random; (f) if the player's picked selection results in the successful outcome: (i) displaying a successful outcome animation, (ii) selecting and indicating a higher one of the award levels, if any, and (iii) determining if a terminating event has occurred, said terminating event occurring if a designated number of outcomes are determined; (g) if the player's picked selection results in the unsuccessful outcome: (i) displaying an unsuccessful outcome animation, (ii) indicating the same selected award level as previously indicated, and (ii) determining if the terminating event has occurred; (h) if the terminating event has occurred, providing the player the award associated with the currently indicated award level; and (i) if the terminating event has not occurred, repeating (d) to (i) at least once.
 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the terminating event occurs if a designated number of unsuccessful outcomes are determined.
 12. The method of claim 10, which includes displaying eight ordered levels.
 13. The method of claim 10, which includes displaying nine ordered levels.
 14. The method of claim 10, which is provided through a data network.
 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the data network is an internet. 